tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35505860923371831722015-10-03T17:11:13.378-07:00Northern Illinois Nordic ChicagoBob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.comBlogger35125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-31381602970537942642015-01-09T08:31:00.003-08:002015-01-09T08:31:49.346-08:002015 NIN Cancelled -- Bummer!Well, we tried. The NIN, scheduled for tomorrow at Arrowhead, is cancelled. Golf course grooming in this scenario of dry snow and high winds (very difficult to impossible) made it a no-go. I'm bummed, but there is nothing we can do. Here is the direct quote from the Wheaton Park District: "Snow accumulations did not add up and the wind was not our friend. Justin (the groomer) was out this AM. Course will remain closed. Unfortunately NO RACE tomorrow." Make that five years in a row . . . . Keep Sunday, Feb. 1 open. A makeup is possible, but not scheduled at this time.Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-82284690216689022212014-11-14T14:27:00.001-08:002015-01-07T12:16:37.567-08:00We're Trying Again! NIN Set for Jan. 10, 2015<b>UPDATE, JAN. 7, 2015: Saturday's Northern Illinois Nordic remains on hold. "A bit" of snow is coming Thursday afternoon. Final decision will be made by 10:30 a.m. on Friday. Arrowhead is really trying to make it happen. Stay tuned.</b><BR><BR> After losing to Mother Nature four years in a row, we're far from giving up. the 2015 Northern Illinois Nordic is on the books for 9 a.m. (not 9:30) on Saturday, Jan. 10, 2015, at Arrowhead Golf Club in Wheaton. All we can do is think snow, good grooming and a lot of fun for a lot of people. Watch for updates here, on the Northern Illinois Nordic Facebook page and via the XCChicago Yahoo discussion group. We plan to have a 14K, 7K and 4K for kids. Please go to http://www.signmeup.com/104365 for complete information and to sign up online. There will be race day registration.Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-47516518385492251612012-03-02T14:04:00.021-08:002012-03-21T17:06:43.534-07:00Saluting Illinois' Top Birkie, Korte SkiersI have not had time until today to list the top Illinois skiers from the 2012 American Birkebeiner and Kortelopet. People in top 6 in their age groups are highlighted. What great conditions after a snow drought for many of us this season! <br /><br /><strong>2012 BIRKIE 50K FREESTYLE (Skate) ILLINOIS TOP 15 MEN<br />(Overall places)</strong><br />80. Jan Myrda, Palos Heights, <strong>6th M40-44</strong>, 2:19:59.9<br />120. Jason Schisler, Gurnee, 26th M25-29, 2:23:43.1<br />257. Roger Prevot, Chicago, 14th M50-54, 2:33:31.4<br />324. Andrew Young, Savoy, 49th M25-29, 2:37:51.3<br />358. Michael Choate, Chicago, 28th M50-54, 2:39:15.6<br />373. Bill Kopanda, Crystal Lake, <strong>2nd M60-64</strong>, 2:40:04.1<br />444. David Harkness, Rockford, 49th M50-54, 2:44:34.0<br />499. Ed Edinger, Capron, 52nd M40-44, 2:47:01.7<br />646. Todd Buck, Lombard, 85th M45-49, 2:53:34.5<br />661. Yuriy Ardashnikov, Skokie, 89th M45-49, 2:53:50.9<br />684. Jim DiDomenico, Elgin, 91st M45-49, 2:54:53.7<br />686. Mark McNeil, West Dundee, 85th M50-54, 2:54:58.0<br />699. David Vincent, Chicago, 58th M35-39, 2:55:30.6<br />801. Aiden Weber, Highland Park, 105th M18-24, 2:59:04.0<br />849. Bill Danielson, Bloomington, 111th M50-54, 3:01:11.6. <br /><br /><strong>2012 BIRKIE 50K FREESTYLE (Skate) ILLINOIS TOP 14 WOMEN<br />(Women's places)</strong><br />94. Margie Prevot, Chicago, 12th F45-49, 3:02:43.6<br />117. Kielo Sauvala, Glenview, <strong>5th F55-59</strong>, 3:09:28.5<br />255. Stephanie Hon, Wilmette, 30th F40-44, 3:39:51.7<br />433. Christine Palmquist, Geneva, 52nd F45-49, 4:13:38.1<br />547. Ruth Meade, Chicago, 68th F45-49, 4:43:40.0<br />559. Margaret Walsh, Chicago, 39th F55-59, 4:46:03.9<br />569. Barbara Menge, Marengo, 13th F60-64, 4:53:19.0<br />647. Mary Erdal, Waukegan, 127th F18-24, 5:30:29.0<br />652. Mary Roe, Villa Park, 75th F50-54, 5:38:38.8<br />655. Rachel Majors, Chicago, 75th F30-34, 5:40:56.5<br />685. Sarah Hraha, Clarendon Hills, 83rd F50-54, 6:17:57.0<br />699. Kathryn Dittemore, Chicago, 86th F50-54, 7:04:21.9<br />700. Cheryl Osman, Downers Grove, 57th F55-59, 7:04:36.4<br />708. Emily Wittenberg, Palatine, 87th F50-54, 8:12:23.9<br /><br /><strong>2012 BIRKIE 50K CLASSIC TECHNIQUE, ILLINOIS TOP 10 MEN<br />(Overall places)</strong><br />260. John Wherity, Chicago, 39th M45-49, 3:36:17.1<br />472. Daniel Henning, Chicago, 33rd M55-59, 4:04:18.3<br />501. Andreas Ruppert, Galena, 60th M45-49, 4:07:13.0<br />548. Seyamack Afzali, Evanston, 39th M25-29, 4:14:13.6<br />549. James Wegner, Mt. Prospect, 63rd M50-54, 4:14:35.2<br />556. Kevin Versino, Rockford, 41st M35-39, 4:15:01.7<br />573. Doug Schneider, Freeport, 41st M60-64, 4:16:57.2<br />584. Bob Walsh, Crystal Lake, 16th M65-69, 4:18:04.1<br />605. Doug McClerran, Naperville, 83rd M50-54, 4:20:38.9<br />705. Robert Ganson, Mundelein, 83rd M50-54, 4:33:35.9<br /><br /><strong>2012 BIRKIE 50K CLASSIC TECHNIQUE, ILLINOIS TOP 7 WOMEN<br />(Overall places)</strong><br />57. Alyson Chapman, Lake Forest, 14th F45-49, 4:00:51.4<br />109. Lisa Nadler, Chicago, 21st F45-49, 4:32:55.9<br />219. Lynette Carani, Highland Park, 13th F60-64, 5:47:37.4<br />263. Helen Schuetz, Batavia, 41st F50-54, 6:33:31.7<br />303. Claire Geiger, Evanston, 48th F18-24, 7:15:41.3<br />316. Laurie Larson, Palatine, 51st F50-54, 7:43:55.7<br />323. Jill Mecklenberger, Chicago, 50th F45-49, 8:00:25.8<br /><br /><strong>2012 KORTELOPET 23K FREESTYLE (Skate) ILLINOIS TOP 5 MEN<br />(Overall places)</strong><br />10. Andrew Nadler, Chicago, <strong>5th M17-18</strong>, 1:04:29.1<br />211. Michael Meissner, Hinsdale, <strong>6th M60-64</strong>, 1:27:36.3<br />285. Greg Painter, Galena, 10th M60-64, 1:33:06.4<br />402. Liam Hoy, Chicago, 46th M17-18, 1:39:20.0<br />421. Guy Larson, Barrington, 20th M45-49, 1:40:36.0<br /><br /><strong>2012 KORTELOPET 23K FREESTYLE (Skate) ILLINOIS TOP 5 WOMEN<br />(Women places)</strong><br />67. Tally Danielson, Bloomington, 8th F13-14, 1:32:25.9<br />120. Jenna Pederson, Chicago, 7th F25-29, 1:39:10.0<br />168. Stacey Jutila, Oak Park, 10th F35-39, 1:45:18.5<br />238. Michelle Mathieu, Naperville, 18th F45-49, 1:54:28.2<br />340. Jacqueline Bychowski, Winnetka, 25th F25-29, 2:06:51.5<br /><br />Also:<br />F65-69<br /><strong>2nd</strong> Diane McNeilly, Rochelle, 2:11:04.0<br /><br /><strong>2012 KORTELOPET 23K CLASSIC TECHNIQUE -- ILLINOIS TOP 5 MEN<br />(Overall places)</strong><br />47. Mark Wold, Glenview, <strong>1st M40-44</strong>, 1:32:01.9<br />103. Steve Capps, Wheaton, <strong>3rd M40-44</strong>, 1:40:49.0<br />158. Michael Dennis, Chicago, 11th M35-39, 1:49:17.0<br />159. Mark Baran, Minonk, 18th M50-54, 1:49:28.8<br />182. Paul Andraschko, Deer Park, 21st M50-54, 1:51:47.4<br /><br />Also:<br />M30-34<br /><strong>3rd</strong> Adam Lund, Chicago, 2:04:52.3<br />M70-74<br /><strong>4th</strong> Art Kardatzke, Downers Grove, 2:00:52.7<br /><strong>6th</strong> Dick Storm, Palatine, 2:08:06.6<br /><br /><br /><strong>2012 KORTELOPET 23K CLASSIC TECHNIQUE -- ILLINOIS TOP 5 WOMEN<br />(Overall places)</strong><br />59. Kerry Ebert, Oak Park, <strong>3rd F40-44, </strong>1:53:39.2<br />105. Lise Loberg, Chicago, 10th F40-44, 2:08:07.0<br />130. Leslie Holling, Kenilworth, 12th F45-49, 2:14:05.4<br />154. Amy Rust, Chicago, <strong>6th F25-29</strong>, 2:22:00.5<br />210. Clemence Sullivan, Chicago, 11th F25-29, 2:32:45.7Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-75137774188853664632012-02-21T19:32:00.001-08:002012-02-21T19:35:04.565-08:00Good Luck at the Birkie!Best of luck to all the Illinois skiers, freestyle or classic, Birkie, Korte, Hakaan or one of the other races. This is the big weekend, the Super Bowl of Nordic skiing in North America. From all reports, conditions will be good. Now, it's up to us. As the famous Birkie song lyrics go, "Just get me to the start line, I'll be ready to go!"Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-18178477991258366912012-02-13T09:30:00.000-08:002012-02-13T09:34:05.318-08:00Myrda, Choate Lead NIN at Pre-BirkieA full contingent of Illinois skiers ventured to the Pre-Birkie this past Saturday. The 42K saw Jan Myrda place 16th overall in 1:58:47 and Mike Choate 61st in 2:09:08.3. Bill Kopanda of Crystal Lake was third from Illinois, placing 141st in 2:21:00.8. Other big names from NIN-land dotted the results in the 42K and 26K. Check out the results on skinnyski.com. Great job by all!Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-19616198785643953782012-02-08T09:30:00.001-08:002012-02-08T09:37:40.401-08:00Nadler, Schisler in Top 5 at Wolf TracksThe debut Wolf Tracks Rendezvous 42K at Minocqua Winter Park on Feb. 4 was a big success as skiers from snow-starved areas north and south converged on the beautiful trails at MWP. The race was won by Adam Swank, 36, of Duluth, MN, in 1:58:42.2. Second went to Peter Koenen, 26, of Madison, WI, in 2:01:57.2, and third went to high schooler <strong>Andrew Nadler</strong>, 17, of Chicago, as he continued a strong season with a 2:04:20.4. Fourth was taken by Matt Zak, 38, of Eveleth, MN, in 2:06:44.9. You might remember Matt was the winner of the NIN the year we held it it in Kenosha. And fifth went to <strong>Jason Schisler</strong>, 27, of Gurnee, in 2:10:17.5. Other Illinois skiers did very well in this race, an interesting sign of what can happen when we aren't the only ones with no-snow for much of the season. And a special hats-off to race director <strong>Jim DiDomenico</strong>, who just happens to have plenty of Illinois roots himself.Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-59033779593165666982012-01-31T11:47:00.000-08:002012-01-31T11:58:41.494-08:00Illinois -- OK at the NoqueJason Schisler (M25-29 age group) of Gurnee flew to a 2:35.59.9 to place 28th at the Noquemanon 50K Freestyle race on Saturday, leading quite a horde of Illinois skiers from the Chicago and Rockford areas. Bill Kopanda of Crystal Lake posted another great performance, winning the M60-64 age category in 2:45:26.6. David Harkness of Rockford (M50-54) was the third Illinois skier in 2:51:54.4. Leading lady was Kielo Sauvala (who else?) of Glenview (F50-54), who had a very nice 3:16:09.9. Best in show in the 50K Classic race was Tom Dvoratchek of Streamwood, who finished 56th overall in 3:23:38.6. In the 24K Classic race, Charlie Carlson of Rockton won the M60-64 group in 1:34:34; and Art Kardatzke of Downers Grove and Tore Bakk-Hansen went 1-2 in M70-74 in 2:03:56.8 and 2:07:25.5 respectively. A lot of other skiers you and I know had great races. Please check out the results. I'm in somewhat of a hurry. I catch a plane to Munich in a few hours. Next up for Bill Weidner and me is the Konig Ludwig Lauf 50K freestyle Worldloppet event in frigid temps on Saturday, Feb. 4.Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-44063897232217392302012-01-30T07:23:00.000-08:002012-01-30T16:34:59.367-08:00Nadler Makes JO TeamAndrew Nadler, 17, of Chicago, qualified over the weekend for the Midwest Junior Olympic team as a J1 skier. The team was chosen from combined OJ and J1 skiers. Here is the whole procedure from the skier himself. Thanks, Andrew, for giving us the skinny on the skinny skiing!<br /><em>"I qualified as the ninth J1 out of the Midwest. There were eight qualifying races (six distance and two sprints) and the best four of eight races from each racer were taken. I'm a better skater than classic skier, so my best races were a 12th place at a 10k skate race in Ironwood,MI, 10th place in a 1k classic sprint in Wausau, WI, 11th place in a 15k skate in Minneapolis, and a 10th place in a 10k skate race in St. Paul. Unlike most people who qualified, I did not have one race that put me safely on the team (and world cup scoring greatly rewards top results), but rather consistently solid finishes. <br />"I got my training plan for the year from my ski coach, Igor Badamshin, coach of the CXC Junior Development Team, and probably averaged about two hours a day over six days of a week of training for the year with some high-volume weeks in the summer and some easier weeks in the fall and early winter when I had to also deal with school work. Junior Nationals are in Soldier Hollow, Utah, this year, the sight of the 2002 Olympic ski races. J1s compete in a 1k classic sprint, a 10k skate mass start, a 10k classic interval start, and a team relay. The races are during the first week of March. I'll definitely be putting in a lot of hours throughout February in preparation for Junior Nationals."</em><br />It is exciting to have an Illinois skier at this level. We'll try to keep you posted on what Andrew is doing as the nationals draw near.Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-57657077606157715552012-01-27T11:29:00.001-08:002012-01-27T11:31:44.639-08:00Good Luck at the Noque!From all I've seen and read, conditions will be ideal tomorrrow for the Noquemanon Ski Marathon and related events at Marquette, MI. Best of luck to all Illinois skiers from NIN Chicago and NIN Rockford. It should be a great race.Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-33649775138120471992012-01-24T15:59:00.000-08:002012-01-24T16:39:06.653-08:00Choate Leads NINers at Lapham LoppetMike Choate put down the hammer against a lead pack of skiers who were younger and placed 11th overall and first in the M50-54 age group on Saturday at the Lapham Loppet 11K at Lapham Peak in Delafield, WI. Choate, 54, of Chicago, skied the tough hilly course in 36:41. Third through sixth of the 18 Illinois skiers in the race were Ed Edinger, 42, of Capion, 16th in 39:11; Tom Dvoratchek, 41, of Streamwood, 18th in 41:25; Jukka Lyly-Yrjanainen, 46, of Elk Grove Village, 23rd in 40:01; and Bill Kopanda, 60, of Crystal Lake, 24th in 40:18. Kopanda won his age group by 3:15. Top woman from Illinois was Kielo Sauvala, 54, of Glenview, who was fourth woman overall and second in her age group with a 46:45. Conditions were great and a lot of race-starved skiers were able to ski a quality event. From a personal standpoint, I was surprised how exhausted I was on the big climb that comes early in the race. I also was very relieved to make it down every hill without falling. Snow or no snow, the season is on!Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-71448499952606925572012-01-18T09:09:00.000-08:002012-01-18T09:13:10.874-08:00Nice Job at the Seeley Classic!Mike Choate and Tom Dvoratchek led the way for Illinois skiers last Saturday at the Seeley Classic 42K on the Birkie Trail. Choate, 54, of Chicago, came in at 2:47:12.8, and Dvoratcheck, 41, of Streamwood, was across in 2:48:48.6. Two other names of interest were Alyson Chapman, 48, of Lake Forest, who finished in 3:12:26.2, and Lynette Crani, 62, of Highland Park, who was second in her age group with a 4:41:22.1 Way to go to all others from Illinois who skied this unofficial Midwest classic championship.Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-68973369729328098862012-01-14T17:24:00.000-08:002012-01-15T17:04:11.278-08:00Chicago's Nadler Wins SISU Fest 21K--UpdatedAndrew Nadler, 17, of Chicago, topped the field on Saturday in the Heikki Lunta Half Marathon, winning the 21K race at the SISU Fest in Ironwood, MI, in 1:04:34.8. <br />"Conditions were perfect in Ironwood, Michigan, after receiving over a foot of snow just a few days earlier," Nadler wrote in an e-mail message. "The ABR groomers did a great job creating a fast and well-covered course out of the abundance of snow. I started out the race skiing in a pack with two other skiers, a skier from the nearby Gogebic Community College and my teammate Alex Larson from Hayward. About five kilometers into the race, Alex and I got a gap on the Gogebic skier, and we skied together through the flat section of the course. About five kilometers from the finish, we came to a long, slight uphill where I decided to make a move. I got a small gap that I was able to extend to about 45 seconds by the finish. It was a fun race."<br />Meanwhile in the main event, the 42K, Jan Myrda, 40, of Palos Heights, finished 11th overall and second in his age group with a 2:15:20.5. Other notable performances in the freestyle race were turned in Bill Kopanda, 60, of Crystal lake, who won his age group in 2:33:05, and Kielo Sauvala, 54, of Glenview, who finished fourth in her age group with a 3:13:18.8. In the 42K classic race, Heidi Schmidt, 55, of Elgin, was third in her age group in 4:24:09, and Mary Callis, 30, of Chicago, won her age group in 6:10:00.1. In the 21K classic race, Art Kardatzke, 70, of Downers Grove, and Peter Turula, 70, of Downers Grove, went 1-2 in their age group in 2:18:12.9 and 2:53:30.1. Awesome job up north! Full results are at www.skinnyski.com.Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-57643919202650852472012-01-03T15:15:00.000-08:002012-01-03T15:19:51.207-08:00NIN, Joliet Nordic Races CancelledUnfortunately, because of the mild winter with almost no snow on the ground, the Northern Illinois Nordic this Saturday and the Joliet Nordic this Sunday have been cancelled. Neither event has been rescheduled. It is possible the Northern Illinois Nordic will be rescheduled, but many factors that include availability of Arrowhead, getting enough volunteers etc., will be part of any rescheduling decision. As of now, there are no plans to reschedule the Joliet race. Watch for updates. Think snow!Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-64470037078042065852011-11-12T11:16:00.001-08:002011-11-12T15:48:00.486-08:00Myrda, Sauvala Win Limestone Loppet<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xP53K5FrUK4/Tr8Czcz7zuI/AAAAAAAAAyg/f6ZjPf_3AqE/s1600/2011%2BLL%2B009.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xP53K5FrUK4/Tr8Czcz7zuI/AAAAAAAAAyg/f6ZjPf_3AqE/s400/2011%2BLL%2B009.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674257138440720098" /></a>No strangers to local cross-country skiing's winners' circle, Jan Myrda (top photo) and Kielo Sauvala (middle photo) won the overall and women's titles respectively on Saturday on a soft trail at McKee Marsh near Warrenville. Parts of the trail got pretty mushy but other parts held up. Skiing in northern Illinois, no matter what the surface, can be challening and fun! Twenty-five skiers competed.<br /><br />8K FREESTYLE TIME TRIAL<br />MALES<br />1. Jan Myrda, 40, Palos Heights, IL, 24:01<br />2. Randal Bladel, 55, Granger, IN, 27:06<br />3. Mike Choate, 54, Chicago, IL, 27:46<br />4. Chuck Kessler, 66, Northbrook, IL, 31:58<br />5. Steve Wikner, 54, Kenosha, WI, 32:05<br />6. David Fyhrie, 57, Wheaton, IL, 32:14<br />7. Chuck Zagozdon, 62, Chicago, IL, 32:26<br />8. Kevin Flowers, 46, Glen Ellyn, IL, 32:58<br />9. Richard Skibicki, 59, Morton Grove, IL, 33:30<br />10. Jim Gearhart, 59, Oak Park, IL, 35:18<br />11. Jerry Pasierb, 51, Downers Grove, IL, 35:27<br />12. Leif Reditsch, 52, Glen Ellyn, IL, 35:38<br />13. Roger Dejus, 57, Hinsdale, IL, 35:56<br />14. Mark Sayers, 50, Shorewood, IL, 36:39<br />15. Harry Maranowicz, 64, Downers Grove, IL, 37:21<br />16. Mike Pellikan, 52, Mount Prospect, IL, 38:00<br />17. Michael Meissner, 61, Hinsdale, IL, 41:26<br />18. Bary Rotman, 50, Grayslake, IL, 42:38<br />19. Mike Hickey, 58, Chicago, IL, 47:47<br />20. John Innocentini, 48, Lake Barrington, IL, 57:40<br /><br />FEMALES<br />1. Kielo Sauvala, 51, Glenview, IL, 37:01<br />2. Sarah Hraha, 51, Clarendon Hills, IL, 53:14<br />3. Deb Choate, 55, Chicago, IL, 59:37<br /><br />4K CAT-SKI RACE<br />1. Abbott Wright, 62, Inverness, IL, 31:44<br />2. Randal Bladel, 55, Granger, IN, 38:19 (Was leading but made wrong turn)<br />3. Charles Wallin, 69, Rockford, IL, 40:24<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QKwzg9oqaEM/Tr8C8ygtypI/AAAAAAAAAys/C_7pnIjoDQI/s1600/2011%2BLL%2B007.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QKwzg9oqaEM/Tr8C8ygtypI/AAAAAAAAAys/C_7pnIjoDQI/s400/2011%2BLL%2B007.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674257298884512402" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dsYDn1017UY/Tr8EoAPlT1I/AAAAAAAAAy4/CSSHGH7OgfM/s1600/2011%2BLL%2B003.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dsYDn1017UY/Tr8EoAPlT1I/AAAAAAAAAy4/CSSHGH7OgfM/s400/2011%2BLL%2B003.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674259140816752466" /></a><br />Casco and King Keyser rolled out the banners on what turned out to be a "balmy" day.Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-37840594039677451632011-11-02T09:45:00.000-07:002011-11-02T10:28:03.713-07:00Limestone Loppet Nov. 12 at McKee Marsh<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EjN-F88QHdw/TrF3BJ_h_xI/AAAAAAAAAxk/EnMSmeDscWY/s1600/garage-limestone%2B026.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EjN-F88QHdw/TrF3BJ_h_xI/AAAAAAAAAxk/EnMSmeDscWY/s320/garage-limestone%2B026.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670444267582127890" /></a>The Limestone Loppet 8K and Cat-Ski 4K are set for Saturday morning, Nov. 12, at McKee Marsh, which is the north side of Blackwell Forest Preserve on Mack Road in DuPage County. The main event consists of a time-trial format 8K freestyle race with skiers starting 30 seconds apart on their off-road roller-skis. The Cat-Ski race will start at 10 a.m. with a mass start. We've had generally OK to good conditions over the years with an exception or two, but this event is always fun and is one heck of an early-season workout. We'll have overall results, but no real awards. There will be a raffle with some terrific stuff including goodies from Casco Eyewear, King Keyser, a gift certificate from New Moon, subscriptions to Master Skier and Cross Country Skier, products from Fast Wax and maybe more. I want to thank Bill Weidner and Barry Rotman for all they have done to help get this race to where it is this year. For information (you don't have to sign up ahead of time, but it sure would help), go to: <a href="https://www.signmeup.com/79457">https://www.signmeup.com/79457</a>, Online entry is $15 plus the registration company fee. If you sign up on race day, please bring $20 in a white envelope with your name on it.Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-30778459049013779582011-10-31T13:24:00.000-07:002011-11-02T19:19:00.807-07:00King Keyser-CXC, Salomon WeekendA good time was had by all, including the two bunches who rolled the 9.6-mile limestone loop at Waterfall Glen before many of them headed to King Keyser for the Super Fit weekend. These two photos are courtesy of Doug McClerran. They were shot the morning of Oct. 29.<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7REJk3R2l34/TrH5ulBZx5I/AAAAAAAAAyI/l0aBO5E_rmk/s1600/CXC2011.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 257px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7REJk3R2l34/TrH5ulBZx5I/AAAAAAAAAyI/l0aBO5E_rmk/s400/CXC2011.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670587984443459474" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f6QCoZAC4Ac/TrH571NlqYI/AAAAAAAAAyU/H3naCNr_eUc/s1600/CXCB2011.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 296px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f6QCoZAC4Ac/TrH571NlqYI/AAAAAAAAAyU/H3naCNr_eUc/s400/CXCB2011.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670588212127836546" /></a>Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-60474504163741521262011-10-26T11:00:00.000-07:002011-10-31T13:29:11.008-07:00Dates to Remember, Starting Now!Sat. Nov. 12 -- Limestone Loppet (Off-road 8K roller-ski time trial and 4K Cat-Ski race), 9 a.m., McKee Marsh/Blackwell F.P., Warrenville. For information and to sign up, go to <em>https://www.signmeup.com/79457</em><br /><br />Sat. Jan. 7 -- Northern Illinois Nordic, Arrowhead Golf Course, Wheaton. For information and to sign up, go to: <em>https://www.signmeup.com/79429</em><br /><br />Sun. Jan. 8 -- Joliet Nordic, Woodruff Golf Course, Joliet. More info to come.Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-69194390040867933962011-03-14T19:26:00.000-07:002011-03-14T19:31:18.008-07:00Myrda, Nadler Shine at Bear ChaseJan Myrda of Palos Heights took sixth place overall at the Great Bear Chase 50K freestyle on Sunday with a 2:17:13.2. The race was won by Joshua Tesch of Superior, WI (he once won the NIN for anyone with a good memory!) in 2:14:37.4. Meanwhile, in the 26K freestyle, Andrew Nadler, the "kid" from Chicago, had another strong race, placing second overall in 1:17:59.4. The race was won by Christophe Nichols of Wausau, WI, in 1:14:26.1. There were a lot of Illinois skiers in the Great Bear Chase, held each year on the Swedetown Trails near Calumet, MI. Full results are at skinnyski.com. There will be some NINers skiing this week at ABR's finale as well. Great job to all, starting with Jan M. and Andrew N.Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-1939151215042308552011-03-06T08:23:00.000-08:002011-03-06T08:25:05.187-08:00Kortelopet ReportSkiers from Illinois did OK in the 2011 Kortelopet, too. Andrew Nadler, a 16-year-old CXC skier from Chicago, placed 18th overall in the skate division in 1:03:00. David Vincent, also from Chicago, was 48th overall and third in the M30-34 category with a 1:08:59, and Stacey Jutila, a Minnesota transplant living in Oak Park, was third in the F35-39 group with a 1:31:17.8. In the classic division, Steve Capps of Wheaton won the M40-44 group in 1:33:25, and Dick Storm of Palatine finished fifth in the M70-74 group in 1:52:52. Way to go to these skiers and the many others who also had great races in frigid conditions.Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-82948439916543069582011-03-03T16:57:00.000-08:002011-03-06T07:35:11.507-08:00Top Illinois Birkie SkiersI'm going at this little by little. Here is our creme de la creme:<br />MEN 50K SKATE<br />53. Jan Myrda, Palos Heights, 2:11:40<br />185. Mike Choate, Chicago, 2:25:07<br />196. Jason Schisler, Gurnee, 2:26:21<br />254. Jukka Lyly-Yrjanainen, Elk Grove Village, 2:30:38<br />271. Andrew Young, Savoy (near Champaign), 2:32:16<br />274. Roger Prevot, Chicago, 2:32:20<br />349. David Harkness, Rockford, 2:36:27<br />422. Jim DiDomenico, Elgin, 2:40:32<br />436. Brian Kearney, Naperville, 2:41:42<br />537. Bill Kopanda, Crystal Lake, 2:46:46<br />WOMEN 50K SKATE<br />833. (90.) Margie Prevot, Chicago, 2:58:19<br />1226. (149.) Kielo Sauvala, Glenview, 3:12:47<br />1977. (274.) Stephanie Hon, Wilmette, 3:39:40<br />2788. (454.) Christine Palmquist, Geneva, 4:20:06<br />3075. (526.) Michelle Mathieu, Naperville, 4:40:08<br />3102. (535.) Elizabeth Gracie, Chicago, 4:42:32<br />3395. (623.) Barbara Menge, Marengo, 5:18:17<br />3583. (667.) Mararate Walsh, Chicago, 6:05:27<br />3621. (679.) Kathryn Dittemore, Chicago, 6:18:05<br />3659. (691.) Ginny Minch, Caledonia, 6:46:47<br />3696. (698.) Cheryl Ossman, Downers Grove, 7:59:22<br /><br />MEN 54K CLASSIC<br />126. (117.) Tom Dvoratcheck, Streamwood, 3:16:43<br />223. (201.) John Wherity, Chicago, 3:31:57<br />254. (231.) Mark Wold, Glenview, 3:36:29<br />370. (331.) Daniel Henning, Chicago, 3:55:57<br />396. (352.) Bob Walsh, Crystal Lake, 3:59:18<br />443. (394.) Tim Dennison, Wheaton, 4:08:15<br />470. (415.) Robert Ganson, Mundelein, 4:12:50<br />483. (427.) Jeffrey Scott, Lake Bluff, 4:14:06<br />513. (450.) Bob Rickert, Aurora, 4:18:29<br />540. (471.) Mark Meccia, Wilmette, 4:22:12<br />WOMEN 54k CLASSIC<br />527. (65.) Sara Conrad, Naperville, 4:20:18<br />624. (83.) Lisa Nadler, Chicago, 4:33:11<br />751. (114.) Tracey O'Donnell, Northbrook, 4:52:18<br />1069. (184) Lise Loberg, Chicago, 5:42:18<br />1163. (203.) Lynette Carani, Highland Park, 5:59:08<br />1193. (212.) Leslie Holling, Kenilworth, 6:08:55<br />1376. (259.) Karen Day, Spring Grove, 7:01:45<br />1439. (278.) Emma Briggs, Chicago, 7:35:28<br />1444. (282.) Michaela Havemann, Crystal Lake, 7:38:03<br />No 10th woman from IllinoisBob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-48196360124584382572011-02-28T13:10:00.000-08:002011-02-28T13:12:21.162-08:00That Was Some Kind of Burr-Kie!Congrats to all who finished the Birkie, Kortelopet and Prince Haakon 12K in ultra-frigid weather. A lot of Illinois people did very well despite the conditions. We even had some podium skiers in the Kortelopet. More later. I will update when I catch my breath.Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-13700398178271438222011-02-23T06:29:00.000-08:002011-02-23T06:39:49.097-08:00Hanging Tough at Stump FarmAgainst a tough field that included international skiers who originally were ticketed to compete in Madison, Illinois skiers did well at theStump Farm 18.5K in Suamico, WI, just north of Green Bay, on Saturday (Feb. 19). On a miracle course of pulverized ice/snow and shoveled-in white stuff, Jan Myrda won the M30-39, Jukka Lyly Yrjanainen won M40-49, and Mike Choate (2nd, M50-59), Tom Dvoratchek (3rd, M40-49) and yours truly (3rd, M60-Plus)also picked up some hardware. Dave Fyhrie skied a great race, but was out of the money is his exceptionally tough M50-59 group. Hats off to the Ashwaubenon Nordic Ski Team and the Reforestation Camp for pulling off this race. If you didn't see the results, Norwegians, Russians and Swiss dominated the podium. The Madison races were called off because of the legislative budget standoff/protest at the capitol building.Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-3743402871219398182011-02-12T18:49:00.001-08:002011-02-12T18:52:55.530-08:00Myrda 2nd at Pre-Birkie 42KDefending champion Jan Myrda, 39, of Palos Heights, was second on Saturday at the Pre-Birkie 42K in Hayward, WI. Jan skied a 1:56:16.7, but lost to John Bauer, 43, of Hayward, who won in 1:54:23.5. Illinois skiers did well throughout the results in both the 42K and 26K. Mike Choate, 53, of Chicago (2:06:00.3), and Roger Prevot, 51, of Chicago, placed third and fourth in the M50-54 age group. Chuck Kessler, 65, of Northbrook (3:01:08.7) placed second in M65-69. Check out the results. You'll see a lot of familiar names.Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-91614589878865781962011-02-12T18:28:00.001-08:002011-02-12T18:33:55.116-08:00Lyly-Yrjanainen, Nadler Win 27Ks at VASAJukka Lyly-Yrjanainen, 45, of Elk Grove Village, won the 27K Classic, and Andrew Nadler, 16, of Chicago, won the 27K Freestyle on Saturday at the North American Vasa races in Acme, MI, next to Traverse City. Jukka (the Finn-Hook guy!) won his race in 1:40:18, nine seconds ahead of runner-up Jim Harrington, also 45, of Petoskey, MI, who finished in 1:40:27. Nadler, a CXC skier and a sophomore at Latin School, won the freestyle race in 1:25:21. Second-place went to Ryan Halstead, 23, of Grayling, MI, in 1:25:39. Ring those cowbells! Two Illinois wins at the Vasa is really something! Congrats to both. 50K and 12K races also were held. Illinois skiers did not win them!Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550586092337183172.post-19645592709086092402011-02-06T14:16:00.000-08:002011-02-07T08:38:19.817-08:00Choate Paces Non-Race Race<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hhMFyTwgQm4/TVAf6WX65cI/AAAAAAAAAv0/w90d-LVKrNI/s1600/P2060015.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 156px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hhMFyTwgQm4/TVAf6WX65cI/AAAAAAAAAv0/w90d-LVKrNI/s400/P2060015.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5570987826356086210" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hhMFyTwgQm4/TVAeEbPIIgI/AAAAAAAAAvk/pnRy1aH4hu0/s1600/P2060023.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 311px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hhMFyTwgQm4/TVAeEbPIIgI/AAAAAAAAAvk/pnRy1aH4hu0/s320/P2060023.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5570985800436818434" /></a>The unofficial NIN Non-race Race at Arrowhead drew about 20 skiers to the snowy trail at Arrowhead Golf Club on Sunday. The new snow, about 2 inches plus) was on top of the trailm which was not regroomed. Still, it wasn't bad to ski on and through as we plowed ahead.Everyone had fun while busting their lungs a bit in what officially was an 8.6K. No times were kept. The top five (all I know for sure) were Mike Choate, David Fyhrie, John Chadwick, Robert Nadler and Kevin Flowers. If I hear how more people did, I'll update. Thanks to Kevin for having the idea to have this non-race race after we were told we could not have the official NIN this weekend.Bob Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16888491520662212162noreply@blogger.com0